Weatherford, C.B. Becoming Billie Holiday. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills, Press, 2008.
ISBN# 978-1590785072. 117 pgs. $6.69 (from amazon.com)
My Review:
This book of almost 100 poems written in first person narrative tells the story of a young girl named Eleanora who would become one of the greatest jazz singers of all time. She was born in Philadelphia in 1915 and would struggle through much of her life as she pursued her passion – singing. Have you ever faced rejection? Discrimination? Poverty? Or how about known someone involved with drug use or alcoholism? Do you think you could experience the lows of jail, violence and even rape and still pursue your passion or desire? What are you good at – what kind of career do you want? Well, one girl, named Eleanora, born in Philadelphia in 1915, had a magical voice. She used that voice and pursued a career which led her to become one of the greatest jazz singers of all time. This book of poems will take you through what would it be like Becoming Billie Holiday.
My Recommendation:
I would recommend this book to Teens, Young adults, and anyone who appreciates honest poetry. Carole Boston Weatherford is an award-winning poet. She writes historical-fiction for teens and young adults and is true to her subjects in order to educate those who will read it. This book combines history and heartache to share the story of a one young girl from birth to young adulthood who would pursue her dreams and become an icon. This is a must-read!
This book of almost 100 poems written in first person narrative tells the story of a young girl named Eleanora who would become one of the greatest jazz singers of all time. She was born in Philadelphia in 1915 and would struggle through much of her life as she pursued her passion – singing. Have you ever faced rejection? Discrimination? Poverty? Or how about known someone involved with drug use or alcoholism? Do you think you could experience the lows of jail, violence and even rape and still pursue your passion or desire? What are you good at – what kind of career do you want? Well, one girl, named Eleanora, born in Philadelphia in 1915, had a magical voice. She used that voice and pursued a career which led her to become one of the greatest jazz singers of all time. This book of poems will take you through what would it be like Becoming Billie Holiday.
My Recommendation:
I would recommend this book to Teens, Young adults, and anyone who appreciates honest poetry. Carole Boston Weatherford is an award-winning poet. She writes historical-fiction for teens and young adults and is true to her subjects in order to educate those who will read it. This book combines history and heartache to share the story of a one young girl from birth to young adulthood who would pursue her dreams and become an icon. This is a must-read!
Book Accolades:
Carole Boston Weatherford is an award-winning poet. She has written over two-dozen books for teens and young adults.
Watch this video on youtube of Billie Holiday singing her first song Strange Fruit!
Another song by Billie Holiday:
Are you a Billie Holiday fan? Check out her official website! 
Learn more about the Author Carole Boston Weatherford:
Read her interview here or check out this neat article on
(Carole Boston Weatherford is an alumnus of American University)
Check out this book trailer on youtube.
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